Show ContentsBunecomb History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The Anglo-Saxon name Bunecomb comes from the family having resided in the village of Butcombe in the county of Somerset.

Early Origins of the Bunecomb family

The surname Bunecomb was first found in Somerset, where "this surname is derived from a geographical locality. 'of Buncombe,' or 'Boncombe,' some spot in the West country." 1 Kirby's Quest notes that Richard de Bounecombe was listed there, 1 Edward III (during the first year of King Edward III's reign.) 2

Early History of the Bunecomb family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bunecomb research. Another 189 words (14 lines of text) covering the years 1086, 1327 and 1500 are included under the topic Early Bunecomb History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bunecomb Spelling Variations

Bunecomb has been spelled many different ways. Before English spelling became standardized over the last few hundred years, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. As the English language changed in the Middle Ages, absorbing pieces of Latin and French, as well as other languages, the spelling of people's names also changed considerably, even over a single lifetime. Spelling variants included: Buncombe, Butcombe, Bounecombe, Bunecombe, Buncomb, Boncombe and many more.

Early Notables of the Bunecomb family

More information is included under the topic Early Bunecomb Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Bunecomb family

In an attempt to escape the chaos experienced in England, many English families boarded overcrowded and diseased ships sailing for the shores of North America and other British colonies. Those families hardy enough, and lucky enough, to make the passage intact were rewarded with land and a social environment less prone to religious and political persecution. Many of these families became important contributors to the young colonies in which they settled. Early immigration and passenger lists have documented some of the first Bunecombs to arrive on North American shores: William Bunchcombe who arrived in Virginia in 1663.



  1. Bardsley, C.W, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames: With Special American Instances. Wiltshire: Heraldry Today, 1901. Print. (ISBN 0-900455-44-6)
  2. Dickinson, F.H., Kirby's Quest for Somerset of 16th of Edward the 3rd London: Harrison and Sons, Printers in Ordinary to Her Majesty, St, Martin's Lane, 1889. Print.


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